Phytosterol supplementation in management of dyslipidaemia in statin refusal

Sabaka Peter; Gajdosik Jan; Caprnda Martin; Balaz David; Komornikova Andrea; Gaspar Ludovit; Dukat Andrej

Volume : VIII, Issue : II, February - 2018

Phytosterol supplementation in management of dyslipidaemia in statin refusal

Sabaka Peter, Gajdosik Jan, Caprnda Martin, Balaz David, Komornikova Andrea, Gaspar Ludovit, Dukat Andrej

Abstract :

Background: Statins are most important lipid–lowering drugs. However, many patients discontinue the statin therapy because of side effects or refusal of further statin treatment. Phytosterol supplements in addition to lifestyle changes may represent an alternative to these patients.

Methods: 94 participants (42 men, 52 women) with history of statin refusal took 800 mg of phytosterol twice a day. Primary end point was change in LDL concentration in 4, 8 and 12 weeks.

Results: LDL concentration declined significantly to 3.49 ± 0.858 in week 8 (p < 0.05) and 3.33 ± 0.955 mmol/l in week 12 (p < 0.05). Total cholesterol decreased accordingly. One participant did not complete the trial due to intolerance of phytosterol. 26.9% subjects reached their target values of LDL.

Conclusions: Statins remains the most important lipid–lowering drugs. Phytosterol supplementation may help to reduce LDL concentration in patients with statin intolerance or refusal.